Seven east London councils are looking to formalise their partnership in a bid for more devolved powers.

Redbridge, Barking and Dagenham, Enfield, Greenwich, Havering, Newham and Waltham Forest are to appoint a director to represent their Local London partnership.

The aim is to build a clear and compelling case for more powers and responsibilities from central government.

The local authorities will also start a joint initiative to take advantage of growth opportunities in the region.

Cllr Jas Athwal, Leader of Redbridge Council, said: “In the face of continuing financial pressures, and significant expected growth in our boroughs, it’s vitally important we identify new ways of working and innovative thinking to deliver services in a way that works best for our residents.

“We need more powers on a local level so we can make sure changes suit the needs of our residents.

“By working together as Local London we can fight for the things that matter to residents in our borough and make sure we’re heard.”

The seven boroughs alone will account for more than a quarter of London’s population growth by 2030.